Ancient Rome and Wine A History of Obsession

Step into the world of ancient Rome and discover the extraordinary role that wine played in Roman society. Far more than a simple drink, wine was deeply connected to religion, politics, trade, medicine, wealth, social status, and everyday life.
This episode explores how the Romans produced, transported, stored, and consumed wine across the vast Roman Empire. Discover Roman vineyards, pressing techniques, amphorae, wine merchants, taverns, banquets, and the enormous commercial networks that moved wine across the Mediterranean.
Explore how wine differed according to quality, age, region, and social class. Discover what wealthy Romans drank at lavish banquets and what ordinary workers and soldiers consumed in their daily lives. Learn how wine was commonly mixed with water and flavored with herbs, spices, honey, and other ingredients.
The episode also examines the religious importance of wine, particularly its connections to Bacchus, as well as its role in Roman medicine and social rituals. Discover how wine could symbolize sophistication and wealth while also being associated with excess and scandal.
Drawing on ancient Roman writings, archaeological discoveries, amphorae, vineyard remains, inscriptions, and modern scholarship, this immersive journey reveals why wine became one of the defining products of Roman civilization.
Narrated with a calm, human voice, this episode is perfect for listeners interested in ancient Rome, Roman history, archaeology, ancient food and drink, trade, daily life, relaxation, or listening before sleep.